Quieter heartbreaks ∙∙
The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. – Psalms 9:9
Matthew 24:3-9
3 Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?
4 And Jesus answered and said to them, See to it that no one misleads you.
5 For many will come in My name, saying, “I am the Christ,” and will mislead many.
6 You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end.
7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes.
8 But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.
9 Then they will deliver you to tribulation and will kill you, and all nations will hate you because of My name.
The Quiet Heartbreaks of COVID-19
The year 2020 will always be remembered as a time of global upheaval brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of lives were lost, tens of millions fell ill, and the world was plunged into chaos. However, beyond the staggering statistics, COVID-19 left behind quieter, more personal heartbreaks.
Once-in-a-lifetime events such as proms, graduations, and weddings were canceled or indefinitely postponed. Births and deaths often occurred in isolation, keeping loved ones apart. The sadness and tragedy of these moments were profound, leaving emotional scars that may take years to heal.
A Historical Parallel: The Hindenburg Disaster
The heartbreak and shock of COVID-19 remind us of another tragic event from the 20th century: the Hindenburg Disaster. While far fewer people were directly affected, the emotional impact of this catastrophe was enormous, heightened by the vivid eyewitness report of Herbert Morrison, a reporter for WLS radio in Chicago.
Morrison’s live broadcast, later combined with newsreel footage, captured the horror of the moment when the Hindenburg airship burst into flames and crashed. His words, raw and unfiltered, expressed the shock and despair of witnessing such a tragedy unfold.
Herbert Morrison’s Eyewitness Account
Here is an excerpt from Morrison’s iconic broadcast, recorded as the disaster unfolded:
“It’s burst into flames! Get this, Charlie; get this, Charlie! It’s fire… and it’s crashing! It’s crashing terrible! Oh, my! Get out of the way, please! It’s burning and bursting into flames and the . . . and it’s falling on the mooring mast and all the folks between it. This is terrible; this is one of the worst catastrophes in the world. Oh, it’s… [unintelligible] its flames… Crashing, oh! Oh, four or five hundred feet into the sky, and it’s a terrific crash, ladies and gentlemen.”
“There’s smoke, and there’s flames, now, and the frame is crashing to the ground, not quite to the mooring mast. Oh, the humanity, . . . I can’t talk, ladies and gentlemen.”
“Honest: it’s just lying there, a mass of smoking wreckage. Ah! And everybody can hardly breathe and talk, and the screaming. I… I… I’m sorry. Honest: I… I can hardly breathe. I… I’m going to step inside, where I cannot see it . . . I’m gonna have to stop for a minute because I’ve lost my voice. This is the worst thing I’ve ever witnessed.”
Morrison’s emotional reaction to the disaster struck a chord with listeners, making the Hindenburg tragedy one of the most unforgettable events of the 20th century.
REFLECT & PRAY
In times of tragedy and uncertainty, whether during a global pandemic or a historical disaster, we are reminded of the importance of faith and wisdom. Jesus warned His followers in Matthew 10:16, “Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.”
As children of the light, we are called to walk in wisdom and grace, even when facing adversity.
Father, because of Your Word, we are not in the dark about these things and should not be surprised. Please help us to walk as children of the light and of the day. Guide us to live wisely, with compassion and faith, even in the midst of life’s tragedies.
INSIGHT
The Fading Glory of Earthly Triumphs
Many children of the King often find themselves grappling with minor slights and setbacks, while others endure quieter heartbreaks from missed opportunities or once-in-a-lifetime events. These moments, initially anticipated with great excitement, may seem monumental at the time, but eventually fade into insignificance.
Consider the story of the co-captain of the UCLA football team, who led his team to an improbable victory against the undefeated Michigan State in the 1966 Rose Bowl. At that moment, the thrill and glory of the victory were overwhelming. However, as the years passed, the exhilaration diminished, and that once-treasured memory became less significant.
This serves as a reminder that earthly triumphs, no matter how grand, are fleeting. They pale in comparison to the eternal perspective we are called to embrace.
The Coming Great Tribulation
While overcoming minor setbacks and disappointments is part of life, the Scriptures caution of much greater trials yet to come. The final half of the seventieth week of Daniel, often called the Great and Terrible Tribulation, will bring unprecedented suffering to the world.
The Lord Jesus Christ Himself described this time in Matthew 24:21-22: “For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will. In fact, unless that time of calamity is shortened, not a single person will survive. But it will be shortened for the sake of God’s chosen ones.”
During this time, the children of the King and the people of Israel will face unimaginable persecution. Each believer will be forced to make life-or-death choices for themselves and their families. Resisting the Antichrist will lead to execution, as described in Revelation 20:4, “Then I saw thrones, and the people sitting on them had been given the authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony about Jesus and for proclaiming the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his statue, nor accepted his mark on their forehead or their hands.”
The Enemy’s Targets: Jews and Christians
The Scriptures make it clear that the enemy’s wrath will be directed at Jews and Christians during this time. Revelation 12:17 states, “And the dragon was angry at the woman and declared war against the rest of her children, all who keep God’s commandments [Jews] and maintain their testimony for Jesus [Christians].”
This sobering reality underscores the importance of spiritual preparedness. While only the Father knows the exact day and hour of these events, we are called to stay vigilant and prepared for the challenges ahead.
Hope in the Midst of Trials
Despite the trials and sorrows that lie ahead, Jesus offers us peace and hope. In John 16:33, He reassures us: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart because I have overcome the world.”
This promise reminds us that no matter how dark the days may become, the ultimate victory belongs to the Lord. His triumph over sin and death guarantees that we, too, can overcome through Him.
Preparing for the Last Days
As the Last Days approach, it is wise to stay aware, alert, and spiritually ready. The Father has given us His Word to guide and enlighten us. Now, more than ever, children of the King need to immerse themselves in Scripture and obey His commands.
Revelation 22:7 offers a powerful reminder: “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed are those who obey the words of prophecy written in this book.”
It is past time for every child of the King to strengthen their relationship with the Father and prepare for what lies ahead. Let us seek His wisdom, strength, and guidance as we face the challenges of this world and anticipate the triumphal return of our Lord Jesus Christ.
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© Dr. H 2025
Dr H Reflections 